88-yr-old gets 2nd pacemaker implant over existing one

88-yr-old gets 2nd pacemaker implant over existing one

 TIMES NEWS NETWORK 02.01.025

New Delhi : Doctors at Paras Hospital successfully implanted a second miniature leadless pacemaker, similar in size to a vitamin capsule, into the heart of an 88-year-old patient. The patient already had a pacemaker that malfunctioned due to battery issues. Doctors said the medical intervention became necessary when the patient suffered from severe dizziness and blackouts, caused by the failing battery of the first leadless pacemaker. 

Medical assessment of the patient identified a critically low heart rate of 30 beats per minute, necessitating immediate admission. The initial treatment involved installing a temporary pacing catheter with a specialised balloon wire to prevent heart perforation. The medical team then conducted the intricate procedure of placing the second pacemaker above the existing one, ensuring autonomous operation of both devices. “This is an index case and has never been done in the country before,” claimed Dr Amit Bhushan Sharma, director and unit head of cardiology-interventional, Paras Health. “This pacemaker is the world’s smallest pacemaker, about the size of a vitamin capsule, and is leadless.” “When the patient came in with battery depletion and loss of consciousness, we had to act swiftly. We successfully implanted the second capsule-sized pacemaker on top of the first one without stopping his blood thinners. 

This innovative approach minimised the risk of heart perforation and ensured both pacemakers functioned independently,” he added. In 2017, Paras Hospital installed the patient’s first capsule-sized pacemaker. The two-hour procedure required careful supervision using specialised imaging and echo guidance for precise pacemaker positioning. “We used a basic type of catheter with a balloon to avoid heart perforation. The second pacemaker was placed above the first to reduce the risk of complications. Special imaging ensured that both pacemakers were correctly positioned and did not interact with each other,” Dr

Sharma said. Doctors said the patient’s medical history included angioplasty in 2014, and he maintained good health with the first leadless pacemaker until the recent battery issues. His health declined due to irregular checkups and followups. After the successful placement of the second leadless pacemaker, he remained under observation for 48 hours before discharge.

Fog season: Centre lists steps for airlines, airport operators to minimise flyers’ pain

Fog season: Centre lists steps for airlines, airport operators to minimise flyers’ pain

TIMES NEWS NETWORK DELHI EDITION 02.01.2025

New Delhi : Airlines should not keep passengers seated inside aircraft for more than 90 minutes in case of fog-related delayed departures and they need to cancel flights delayed by over three hours. As peak winter fog season kicks in, the Union civil aviation ministry on Wednesday listed dos and don’ts for airlines and airport operators to minimise passenger inconvenience. “The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security’s (BCAS) circular for facilitating smooth re-entry of passengers in case of flight cancellations was operationalised and drills were organised by CISF with stakeholders. This would significantly reduce passenger inconvenience and ensure a smoother re-boarding process once flights resume,” the Ram Mohan Naidu-headed ministry said in a statement. Airlines have been “instructed” to proactively communicate with passengers about potential delays/cancellations due to visibility issues. “For this, airlines and booking agents (need) to ensure that correct passenger contact information is recorded during ticket booking.” 

The Met department (IMD) along with Airports Authority of India (AAI) is expediting implementation of “advanced weather observation system” (AWOS) at Indira Gandhi International Airport and other fog-affected airports. This system will ensure accurate and timely weather information for pilots and air traffic controllers to enhance operational safety and efficiency. “IMD (is) committed to ensure all Met equipment function without disruption.” The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), “in close coordination with airlines, has ensured deployment of adequate number of CAT II/CAT III-compli ant crew and aircraft to carry out low visibility operations efficiently during fog at affected airports. Three runways at the Delhi airport have activated CAT-III ILS systems, including the important runway between T1 and T2.” Airlines have been asked to ensure full staffing at check-in counters during peak hours to reduce passenger inconvenience. 

“Delhi airport has installed LED screens at prominent locations to provide real-time updates on visibility conditions. The airport has also scaled up the number of ‘follow me’ vehicles, which will guide and assist the pilots on the apron/taxiway during low visibility conditions ensuring better coordination on ground,” the statement says. Airlines have been told to sensitise their “operations control centres” and war-room representatives for closer coordination during adverse weather, especially fog, to “improve real time decision-making (and) allowing for more effective and timely responses to flight delays or cancellations.” “AAl has implemented new standard operating procedures to effectively regulate air traffic at fog-affected airports and at the originating or destination airports,” it added.

Notice Issued Against Dead Person Is Invalid; Participation Of Legal Heirs In Proceedings Doesn't Make It Legal: Kerala High Court

Notice Issued Against Dead Person Is Invalid; Participation Of Legal Heirs In Proceedings Doesn't Make It Legal: Kerala High Court

Mehak Dhiman

21 Dec 2024 6:15 PM

The Kerala High Court stated that notice issued against a dead person is invalid and participation of legal heirs of deceased in the proceedings won't make it legal.

The Division Bench of Justices A.K. Jayasankaran Nambiar and K.V. Jayakumar observed that “the consent of the parties cannot confer jurisdiction to the assessing authority for initiation of an action which is otherwise illegal and 'non-est'.”

In this case, the appellants are the legal heirs of Late assessee who expired on 30.10.2021. Notice dated 27.03.2023 was served on the address of the late assessee.

On receipt of the notice, the 1st appellant appeared before the Assessing Officer and informed him about the death of the assessee.

Thereafter, the Revenue issued an order dated 10.04.2023 under Clause (d) of Section 148A of the Act in the name of the deceased assessee. Following that, he also issued a notice dated 10.04.2023 under Section 148 of the Act in the name of the deceased assessee.

The appellant filed a writ before the High Court stating that the assessment proceedings sought to be initiated under Section 147 of the Act is unsustainable. However, the Single Judge dismissed the petition.

The assessee submitted that the notice issued in the name of a dead person is not valid and in the absence of issuance of a valid notice, the assessment proceedings sought to be initiated under Section 147 is unsustainable.

The department submitted that the notices issued to the dead person under Sections 148A(b) and 148A of the Act are only mere irregularities, which can be cured. Since the legal heirs of the deceased assessee have already participated in the proceedings, they are estopped from taking a different plea in the writ petition.

The bench stated that the “the notices issued under Sections 148A(b) and 148 of the Act in the name of a dead person are invalid and 'non-est' in the eye of law. It is a nullity and not a mere irregularity which could be cured. It is true that, on the receipt of the above said notices, the legal heirs of the deceased Naringaparambail Bhaskaran/appellants herein appeared before the assessing authority. However, that by itself would not change the situation.”

The bench opined that the consent of the parties cannot confer jurisdiction to the assessing authority for initiation of an action which is otherwise illegal and 'non-est'.

The bench disagreed with the view of the Single Judge that the legal heirs of the deceased assessee are estopped from taking a different stand in the writ petition, since they have appeared before the assessing authority and participated in the proceedings.

“the initiation of proceedings against a dead person under Sections 148A(b) and 148 of the Income Tax Act are illegal and 'non-est'.” added the bench.

In view of the above, the bench allowed the appeal.

Case Title: N. Binoj v. Income Tax Officer

Citation: 2024 LiveLaw (Ker) 822

Case Number: WA NO. 2093 OF 2023

Counsel for Appellant/ Assessee: Latha Anand

Counsel for Respondent/ Department: Keerthivas Giri

Flight operations at IGI disrupted by dense fog, 200+ delays reported

Flight operations at IGI disrupted by dense fog, 200+ delays reported 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK  02.01.2025

New Delhi : Dense fog at Indira Gandhi International Airport disrupted flight operations on Wednesday morning. Visibility dropped to 100 metres for about two hours, causing several flight delays. However, no flights were diverted or cancelled due to low visibility. According to FlightRadar24, over 200 flights experienced delays, with the average delay being 18 minutes. 

RK Jenamani, senior scientist at India Meteorological Department (IMD), said, “The visibility was 100 metres at IGI Airport for nearly two hours, from 5 am to 7 am, on Wednesday. However, the runway visibility range was low at only one runway at 500 metres.” He added that no significant dense fog was observed at Palam this year due to frequent winds. “The wind conditions observed mostly in Dec eroded the fog layer in Delhi,” said Jenamani. An airport official said, “No flight was diverted to any other city due to fog. Some flights were also delayed due to weather conditions at the origin airport.” Delhi Airport wrote on X: “While landings and takeoffs continue at Delhi Airport, flights that are not CAT III compliant may get affected. Passengers are requested to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information. Any inconvenience is deeply regretted.” IMD has issued a yellow alert for moderate fog at most places and dense fog at isolated locations on Thursday. “Fog may affect some airports, highways, and railway routes. It causes difficult driving conditions with slower journey times,” IMD stated. 

Met department advised caution while driving or travelling and staying updated with airlines, railways, or state transport regarding journey schedules. Officials noted that the airport initiates low visibility procedures (LVP) when visibility drops below 800 metres. During such periods, CAT-I procedures apply for visibility above 550 metres. Pilots compliant with CAT-II can land when visibility is between 275-550 metres, while CAT-III  A and B pilots can land in conditions with visibility below 275 metres and even as low as 50 metres.

Relief for DPharm students as exit exam deferred indefinitely

Relief for DPharm students as exit exam deferred indefinitely 

TIMES OF INDIA bhopal 02.01.2025

Nagpur : In a relief for diploma in pharmacy (DPharm) students across the country, Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) has allowed registration and issuance of licences to the 2022-23 batch after their exit exam, scheduled for Oct 2024, was deferred by National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) indefinitely, reports Sarfaraz Ahmed. 

NBEMS postponed DPharm Exit Examination (DPEE), comprising three papers, asking students to keep checking its website for updates. However, it didn’t provide any specific reason for the deferment, leaving the student community in lurch. In the absence of registration certificates and licences, the graduating batch of 2024 had been unable to work as pharmacists or start their own businesses. 

On Dec 31, PCI notified students that the exam had been deferred indefinitely and announced that it would allow registration and licensing for one year for all students. PCI had previously prohibited students from renewing their licences without passing the exit exam. “After months of waiting, registration is finally under way, and licences are being issued, allowing us to start our careers or businesses,” said a student, expressing gratitude towards PCI and the govt. The statutory body has written to Union health ministry, seeking its nod to amend regulation 6 of DPEE 2022 under section 10 of Pharmacy Act 1948 to hold just one paper, instead of three.

'Serious Misconduct': Gujarat HC Declines Plea By Govt Officer Debarred From Taking Class-I Officer's Exam For 'Misbehaving With Invigilator'

'Serious Misconduct': Gujarat HC Declines Plea By Govt Officer Debarred From Taking Class-I Officer's Exam For 'Misbehaving With Invigilator'

Lovina B Thakkar

24 Oct 2024 11:15 AM

While dismissing a plea by a government officer debarred from the Gujarat Public Service Commission (GPSC) 2023-2024 due to her alleged misconduct in preliminary examination, the Gujarat High Court observed allegations against the officer were serious and not expected from a person appearing in Class-I officer's exam.

The petitioner officer moved the high court challenging the order of GPSC debarring her from taking the main examination, after it was alleged that during the preliminary examination she violated exam protocols and misbehaved with the invigilator and lady constable present in the examination hall.

A single judge bench of Justice Nirzar Desai in its October 18 order said,“I find the misconduct, which is alleged against the present petitioner, is very serious in nature and the same is not expected from a person, who is appearing in the examination for Class-I officer. When, the petitioner is appearing in an examination for the post of Class-I officer, it was expected of her to respect and comply with the instructions issued by the Respondent – GPSC for the said purpose.”

The court observed that the issue was not just about the petitioner not hearing the warning bell or confusing it with the final bell, which she had claimed. It was about her overall behaviour and conduct towards the invigilator and the female police constable, that had “disturbed the Court to the core", the court said.

The candidate who, an employee of the GST Department, applied for the Gujarat Administrative Service Class-I post. She appeared for the preliminary exam based on Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) on January 7, 2024, where the candidates are given 3 hours to attempt 200 questions. It was alleged that she continued answering questions after the final bell, mistaking it for the warning bell. When instructed to stop, she refused, leading to an argument with the invigilator and a police constable who had to intervene.

It was submitted by the counsel of the candidate that the petitioner missed the warning bell and mistakenly thought she had 10 more minutes, so she kept answering questions. The counsel argued that it was an honest mistake, not misconduct, and that barring her from the main exam was too harsh and uncalled for. Further, the counsel submitted a full inquiry wasn't conducted, she was unfairly treated. As a result, requested the court to quash and set aside the order that barred her from taking the main exam.

The Petitioner further made several representations to GPSC between April 18 to May 2. The respondent commission issued a show cause notice to the petitioner on May 2 as to why an action should not be initiated against her for breaking the exam protocols and further, she was asked to appear in person on May 23, where she tendered and unconditional, written apology to GPSC.

GPSC did not accept her apology and explanation regarding the incident and thereafter issued an order on June 4 barring her from taking the main examination for violating exam rules. GPSC announced the main exam for various posts, scheduled between October 13 and 27. The petitioner's counsel argued that the chargesheet was not issued nor any proceedings or inquiry was conducted against her and therefore, the petitioner is denied a fair chance to put up her defence.

Counsel appearing for GPSC strongly opposed the petition and submitted that the Court has limited power to consider the petition under Article 226 of the Constitution of India. It was submitted that the petitioner's misbehaviour and her actions were captured on CCTV and the footage will show the petitioner continuing to answer questions after the exam ended and her misbehaviour with the invigilator and the female constable who escorted her out of the exam hall.

It was submitted that, despite the seriousness of the petitioner's misconduct, the Respondent GPSC has taken a lenient approach as they did not inform the petitioner's parent department or file a complaint regarding her behaviour with the female police constable. The petitioner sent several representations to GPSC apologizing for her actions, which suggested that she admits her guilt. Therefore, it was argued that there was no need for an inquiry since she has already accepted responsibility. The counsel further submitted that the punishment given to the petitioner by GPSC is appropriate and light considering the seriousness of her misconduct. Therefore, the petition should be dismissed.

The high court in its order observed that since the case is based on facts, this Court's interference under Article 226 of the Constitution is very limited. The court said that petitioner's counsel had failed to demonstrate that this is an exceptional case, wherein, the findings of facts are, though, against the petitioner, the interference of this Court is necessary.

Justice Desai further observed when the final bell rang and the invigilator asked the petitioner to submit her OMR sheet, she refused and continued answering for another 5 to 7 minutes. If she had truly mistaken the final bell for the warning bell, she would have stopped when alerted. When the invigilator called a lady constable for assistance, the petitioner misbehaved with her as well, the court noted. Notably, the presence of CCTV cameras did not prevent her inappropriate behaviour toward both the invigilator and the constable, the court added.

The Court further observed after the show-cause notice, the petitioner appeared before GPSC on May 24, and submitted an unconditional apology, admitting her guilt. As a result, GPSC barred her from the main examination but she is not barred from future exams, it noted. Since she did not challenge the notice or the procedures before the punishment, the arguments about procedural issues cannot be accepted, the high court said. Therefore, the request for an inquiry is also denied, as the petitioner's admission of guilt makes it unnecessary, the court said.

The Court further observed that the GPSC had taken a "lenient view" and merely debarred the petitioner from appearing in the main exam in spite of the serious misconduct by her as it could have had an adverse impact on her existing service with the state government and so the GPSC's action cannot be termed as “unjust or unreasonable”.

It thereafter dismissed the plea.

Case Title: Vaishali Gagjibhai Variya vs Gujarat Public Service Commission

LL Citation: 2024 LiveLaw (Guj) 161

Gujarat High Court Quashes Chargesheet Against Govt Official For Renewing Passport Without NOC, Deems It "Administrative Lapse"

Gujarat High Court Quashes Chargesheet Against Govt Official For Renewing Passport Without NOC, Deems It "Administrative Lapse"

Tazeen Ahmed

31 Oct 2024 12:20 PM

In the significant case, the Gujarat High Court bench of Justices A.S. Supehia and Gita Gopi has quashed a charge sheet issued against Charu Bhatt, who was serving as a Director of Accounts and Treasury, who was accused of renewing her passport in 2013 without obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the State Government.

While two other charges related to passport procurement and unauthorized foreign travel were dropped, the Court held that the renewal without NOC did not constitute “misconduct” under the Gujarat Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1971, as it was merely an administrative “lapse”.

Brief Facts:

Charu Narendrabhai Bhatt (Appellant) filed a Letters Patent Appeal under Clause 15 of the Letters Patent, directed against the order dated 2.05.2024, in which her writ petition was dismissed by the single judge. The petition sought to challenge a charge sheet issued on 24.05.2021, alleging misconduct. While two charges were later dropped by the State, Charge No. 2 remained, alleging that the appellant renewed her passport without obtaining an NOC in 2013. The appellant contended that this did not constitute misconduct under Rule 3(1) of the Gujarat Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1971 and that the delay in issuing the charge sheet justified its quashing.

Observations:

The Court observed that the 8-year delay in issuing the charge sheet at the fag end of service od the appellant was indicative of mala fide intention, most likely due to personal grudges held by the officer in charge of issuing the charge sheet. The court placed reliance upon the case of UCO Bank and others vs. Rajendra Shankar Shukla, where the Supreme Court quashed and set aside the charge sheet on the ground of inordinate and unexplained delay.

The court noted that Rule 3(1) of the Gujarat Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1971, refers to three aspects, which the Government servant has to maintain, (i) absolute integrity, (ii) devotion to duty, and (iii) conduct that does not become unbecoming of a government servant. The court held that the act of the appellant—who failed to obtain an NOC at the time of passport renewal—did not constitute a “lack of integrity” or “lack of devotion towards duty”, nor could it be deemed “unbecoming of a Government servant” under clause (iii). This omission, at most, could be viewed as a "lapse" rather than an egregious conduct.

Further, the court observed that Rule 24 of the Gujarat Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 2002 empowers the Government to withhold or withdraw pension only when the pensioner is found guilty of “grave misconduct or negligence” during the period of service. It noted that Charge No.2 of the chargesheet does not in any manner satisfy the expression “grave misconduct or negligence”. Thus, the intention of issuing the charge sheet by the Officer by exhuming stale lapse appeared to jeopardize the retirement benefits of the appellant by continuing the departmental proceedings beyond her retirement benefits.

The court observed that the judgment in Union of India and another Vs. Kunisetty Satyanarayana does not completely bar the High Court from quashing the charge-sheet or show-cause notice and it can be done in rare and exceptional cases. It held that the appellant had carved out such exception and her case would fall under 'rare and exceptional case'. Thus, on the ground of unexplained delay of 8 years, and the nature of alleged misconduct, the charge-sheet was quashed and set aside.

The court awarded Rs. 10,000 as costs to the appellant and granted the State the option to recover the amount from the erring officer.

Case Title: Charu Narendrabhai Bhatt vs. State of Gujarat

LL Citation: 2024 LiveLaw (Guj) 164

Case Number: LPA 540/2024

Appearance: Mr. Vaibhav A Vyas (2896) for the Appellant; Mr. Sahil B. Trivedi, AGP for the Respondent.

Date of Judgment: 28.10.2024

In a 1st, special trains included in rail timetable

In a 1st, special trains included in rail timetable 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 02.01.2025

New Delhi : Indian Railways has notified a new timetable for trains with effect from Wednesday. This is for the first time the transporter included 4,056 special trains in the normal timetable for the convenience of passengers. Under the new arrangement, the number of 2,875 trains has been changed, including express and passenger trains. Additionally, the departure and arrival times of several trains at various stations have been changed. Officials said 74 new trains have been included in the timetabl. “Trains cancelled during fog have place in the timetable. Now, passengers will not face issues of last-minute cancellations. The speed of 16 trains have been increased and converted into superfast,” an official said.

Dense fog cloaks Bhopal, min drops to 8 deg; biting cold to grip parts of state

Dense fog cloaks Bhopal, min drops to 8 deg; biting cold to grip parts of state 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK  0.01.2025

Bhopal : The city woke up to the first dense fog of the season on Wednesday. There was a sharp dip in the day temperature, which made it a colder day in Bhopal. The night temperature in the city also remained below the normal mark. Biting cold is expected in the city and the state for the next few days. A warning of dense fog was issued for many places in the state. The day temperature in Bhopal on Wednesday was recorded at 18.3 degrees Celsius, six degrees below the normal mark, while the night temperature in the city was 8.4 degrees Celsius, two degrees below the normal mark. The visibility in Bhopal was less than 100 metres in the morning hours. The lowest temperature of 6.1 degrees Celsius was recorded in Shahdol. 

In the forecast for Bhopal on Thursday, the meteoro logical dept stated there would be a clear sky with shallow to moderate fog during the morning hours. The day and night temperatures would be 19 degrees Celsius and 8 degrees Celsius, respectively, while the average wind speed will be ten kilometres per hour. In the forecast for the state, the meteorological dept issued a warning of dense fog and a cold day at isolated places in Bhopal, Rajgarh, Umaria, Katni, Jabalpur, Damoh, Sagar, Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh, and Niwari districts. A warning of dense fog was issued for Vidisha, Raisen, Sehore, Singrauli, Sidhi, Rewa, Mauganj, Satna, and Maihar districts. A warning of moderate fog and a cold day was issued for Gwalior, Datia, Bhind, and Morena districts. A warning of moderate fog was issued for Shajapur, Agar, Mandsaur, Neemuch, Guna, Ashoknagar, Shivpuri, and Sheopur districts. A warning of shallow to moderate fog existed for Betul, Harda, Indore, Ratlam, Ujjain, and Dewas districts. Dry weather is expected to prevail in the state.

Govt wants airlines, airports to optimise flyer comfort

Govt wants airlines, airports to optimise flyer comfort 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK  0.01.2025

 New Delhi : Airlines should not keep passengers seated inside aircraft for more than 90 minutes in case of fog-related delayed departures and they must cancel flights delayed by over three hours. As peak winter fog season kicks in, the aviation ministry on Wednesday listed out dos and don’ts for airlines and airport operators to minimise passenger inconvenience. 

“Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) circular for facilitating smooth re-entry of passengers in case of flight cancellations was operationalised and drills were organised by CISF with stakeholders. This would significantly reduce passenger inconvenience and ensure a smoother re-boarding process once flights resume,” the Ram Mohan Naidu-headed ministry said in a statement. Airlines have been “instructed” to proactively communicate with passengers about potential delays and cancellations due to visibility issues. “For this, airlines and booking agents must ensure that correct passenger contact information is recorded during ticket booking.” The Met department (IMD) along with Airports Authority of India (AAI) is expediting implementation of “advanced weather observation system” (AWOS) at IGIA and other fog-affected airports. This system will ensure accurate and timely weather information for pilots and air traffic controllers to enhance operational safety and efficiency. “IMD (is) committed to ensure all Met equipment function without disruption,” Met office said. The DGCA said it is “in close coordination with airlines, has ensured deployment of adequate number of CAT II/CAT III-compliant crew and aircraft to carry out low visibility operations efficiently during the fog period at affected airports. Three runways at the Delhi airport have activated CAT III ILS systems, including the important runway 10/28 (the one between T1 and T2).” 

Airlines have been asked to ensure full staffing at check-in counters during peak hours to reduce passenger inconvenience. 

“Delhi Airport has installed LED screens at prominent locations to provide real-time updates on visibility conditions. Delhi airport has also scaled up the number of ‘follow me’ vehicles, which will guide and assist the pilots on the apron/taxiway during low visibility conditions ensuring better coordination on ground,” IGIA said in a statement. Airlines have been told to sensitise their “operations control centres” (OCCs) and war-room representatives for closer coordination during adverse weather conditions, especially fog, to “improve real-time decision-making (and) allowing for more effective and timely responses to flight delays or cancellations”, the DGCA said. “AAl has implemented new standard operating procedures to effectively regulate air traffic at fog-affected airports and at the originating or destination airports,” it added. The aviation ministry said it has conducted a series of consultations over the last two months with airlines, airport operators, DGCA, BCAS, AAI, IMD, and Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

VTU revamps MTech curriculum, 3- way career path in final semester

VTU revamps MTech curriculum, 3- way career path in final semester

SruthySusan.Ullas@timesofindia.com .01.2025

 Bengaluru : Visvesvaraya Technological University has revamped the curriculum for MTech programmes, creating a three-way career path for students in the final semester. It has decided to offer the programmes as MTech in the main branch of study with specialisation in parentheses. The specialisations will be offered from the second semester. The new format will be launched from 2024-25, said vice-chancellor S Vidyashankar. This year, 2,301 students opted for MTech through Karnataka Examinations Authority. 

“Usually, MTech programmes come with various specialisations within each stream. For instance, there is MTech in machine design, thermal engineering, etc., within mechanical engineering. However, we noticed that colleges have to keep shifting between these courses depending upon the demand that year. It is a painstaking process to close one branch and open another one. Therefore, we decided to revamp the courses in such a way that we will have a main branch of study with a specialisation indicated in parentheses,” explained dean B Sadashiv Gowda. With this, irrespective of the specialisation, the students will study common subjects in the first semester. › 3 career paths, P 4 Students now have 3 career paths: VTU In the subsequent semesters, the students learn courses related to their specialisation. There are electives provided that allow students to learn the subjects of their interest. “So, it is possible for  an engineering institute to offer all these depending on the industry requirements. They need not close down or open a new course based on the specialisation,” he explained. 

Similarly, the university has also heralded changes in the final semester. Students will have three options in the final semester. Those interested in research will have the option to pursue it and submit a report. The other options are an internship, where students will go to industry and work, which might also result in placement. A third option is for those who do not want to take up research or internship but want to do courses in the institute itself. They can take more courses in the third semester and do project work in the fourth semester.

“So we have created three career paths depending on the student interests, location of the college, and industry-institute collaborations. The colleges can guide students in the right direction, creating a win win situation for all kinds of institutes in tier one, two, or three cities,” he said. The university wrote to the All-India Council of Technical Education about the changes, which duly approved them. It was later approved by the statutory bodies of the university.

IMA writes to CM for stricter action against quacks

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 0.01.205

Ahmedabad : The Gujarat chapter of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has written to the state chief minister, urging stricter punishment for unauthorised allopathic medical practitioners and quacks due to the “life-threatening consequences” they pose. The letter states that under the existing provisions, there is only a Rs 500 penalty for the first offence, a Rs 500 fine and six month imprisonment for the second offence, and a Rs 2,000 penalty and/or two-year imprisonment or both for subsequent violations. The association said these punishment rules were framed in 1963, and it is high time these sentences were made stricter because unauthorised practitioners have no fear of getting caught. Earlier, the association wrote to the health commissioner, asking the state govt to take stringent action against unauthorised allopathic medical practitioners.

“We urgently bring to your kind attention the critical issue of the unauthorised practice of modern medicine by non-allopathic practitioners and quacks. This alarming trend poses an imminent threat to the health and safety of the people of Gujarat. Numerous reports of individuals without formal training in modern medicine providing allopathic treatments have surfaced, leading to dangerous and sometimes life-threatening consequences for unsuspecting patients,” the letter reads. “If this unlawful practice is not stopped immediately, it will lead to widespread health disasters,” the letter states.

₹2000 notes worth ₹6,691 cr. yet to be returned: RBI data

₹2000 notes worth ₹6,691 cr. yet to be returned: RBI data

02.01.2025

The total value of ₹2000 banknotes in circulation, which stood at ₹3.56 lakh crore at the close of business on May 19, 2023, when the withdrawal of ₹2000 banknotes was announced, has declined to ₹6,691 crore at the close of business on December 31, 2024, as per updated data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). “Thus, 98.12% of the ₹2000 banknotes in circulation as on May 19, 2023, have since been returned,” the RBI said on Wednesday.

Report FCRA violations by NGOs, govt. asks CAs

 Report FCRA violations by NGOs, govt. asks CAs

The Hindu Bureau

 

NEW DELHI 02.01.2025

The Union Home Ministry on Wednesday notified that chartered accountants filing audit returns on behalf of NGOs need to specify if the organisation violated provisions of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 (FCRA) or not.

The Act requires a CA to certify if an association or NGO has utilised foreign contribution received for the purposes it was registered for and the annual statements are to be uploaded on the FCRA portal.

In a December 31 notification, the Ministry said that CAs will have to mention the name, email address, and registration number of the auditor while issuing the audit certificate and specify if the NGO has “violated the provisions of FCRA, 2010 or rules made thereunder or notifications issued thereunder,” with the details of the violations.

The auditors will also have to specify if the NGO has not made any violation.

“I have examined all relevant books and records, including the items mentioned in column 8 of FC-4, and to the best of my knowledge and belief (name of the person/ association) has not violated any provisions of the FCRA, thereunder or notifications issued thereunder,” the CAs will have to specify. The notification amends the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Rules, 2011.

A member of a voluntary group said the Home Ministry notification will make it more difficult for NGOs who are critical of the government to find auditors to file returns on their behalf. “Even if you find an FCRA donor, CAs will be scared to prepare certificates on the behalf of NGOs who are perceived to be not in the good books of the government,” said the member.

Earlier in 2021, the Ministry advised chartered accountants to ensure that foreign funds are received and utilised by NGOs “within the four corners of law”.

State cancels smart metering tender awarded to Adani Group

State cancels smart metering tender awarded to Adani Group

The Hindu Bureau

CHENNAI  02.01.202

Tamil Nadu’s ambitious smart meter project to modernise electricity billing has been stalled, after the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL) cancelled the tender awarded to Adani Energy Solutions Limited, part of the Adani Group.

Confirming the cancellation of the tender for procuring smart meters, a senior official of Tangedco said that currently, Adani was the only company making smart meters in the country.

Officials of TNPDCL conducted negotiations with the company officials, and found that the price quoted was high.

The senior electricity official said that at a time when several States were planning to install 30 crore smart meters, with Tamil Nadu alone needing nearly 1.20 crore smart meters, it was not possible to stick to the delivery schedule.

Modernisation project

TNPDCL had planned to modernise electricity meters at a cost of ₹19,000 crore for nearly 1.20 crore customers in three phases. The smart meter project was to be implemented under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).

Adani Energy Solutions Limited has presence in various facets of the energy domain, including power transmission, distribution, smart metering, and cooling solutions.

As per an investor presentation made by Adani Energy Solutions, the company has a smart meter portfolio of 22.8 million, with a contract value of ₹27,200 crore. In an earnings call in October last year, the company said it expected the Tamil Nadu bid to be closed in a couple of months.

The tender cancellation comes in the wake of the indictment of Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani in New York over allegations of bribery and fraud. The group has denied the allegations.

The names of several State discoms, including that of Tamil Nadu, were included in the indictment.

‘T.N. govt. and Governor should set aside their differences for welfare of students’

‘T.N. govt. and Governor should set aside their differences for welfare of students’

E. Balagurusamy

The Hindu Bureau

Chennai  02.01.2025

The sexual assault on a student of Anna University was a result of “anarchy in the university system”, former Vice-Chancellor E. Balagurusamy said on Wednesday.

In a statement, he urged the Governor-Chancellor and the Higher Education Minister-cum-Pro Chancellor “to avoid confrontational attitude and work in tandem in the overall interest of higher education in the State”.

Ten days ago, a girl student residing in one of the hostels on the university campus was sexually assaulted, allegedly by an outsider. The issue has since attracted media attention from across the country. Anna University was ranked the best State university by NIRF in 2024.

Prof. Balagurusamy said the Tamil Nadu government and the Governor had been “at loggerheads for a long time over the constitution of search panels” for selecting Vice-Chancellors, as a result of which many universities had been headless for more than two years. Also, in the next few months, almost all universities will become headless, he added.

Given that many universities did not have regular registrars, controller of examinations, and finance officers, their functioning had been severely crippled, “creating chaos”, he said.

A further delay in appointing V-Cs will affect the welfare of the students, and the quality of education and research, he said.

Several universities had not held convocations on time, and degree certificates were signed by bureaucrats, which degraded the value of the certificates in the job market, he said.

Prof. Balagurusamy said the Supreme Court judgments on V-C appointments were inconsistent. “In one case, the Supreme Court cancelled the appointment of a Vice-Chancellor for not following the guidelines of the University Grants Commission,” he said.

In the case of Madurai Kamaraj University, the Madras High Court dismissed the Vice-Chancellor for not following UGC regulations, but the Supreme Court ruled against the High Court order and reinstated the same person, saying the appointment was made as per the Act of the university, he said.

“It is high time the government and the Governor kept their egos aside and found an immediate and amicable solution,” he said.

In a first in India, Air India rolls out in-flight Wi-Fi net

In a first in India, Air India rolls out in-flight Wi-Fi net

 TIMES NEWS NETWORK 0.01.2025

New Delhi : Air India has become the first Indian airline to offer in-flight Wi-Fi internet to passengers on domestic and international routes aboard its Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9, and select A321neo flights. “Wi-Fi is complimentary for an introductory period and will progressively roll out on other aircraft in the fleet over time. It will enable passengers to browse, access social media, catch up on work, or text friends and family,” Tata group company said. 

The service allows passengers to connect multiple devices simultaneously when flying above 10,000 feet, subject to factors such as satellite connectivity, overall bandwidth usage, flight routes, and govt restrictions. “Connectivity is now an integral part of modern travel. For some, it is about the convenience and comfort of real-time sharing, while for others, it is about greater productivity and efficiency. Whatever one’s purpose, we are confident that our passengers will appreciate the option to connect to the web and enjoy the new Air India experience on board these aircraft,” said Rajesh Dogra, AI’s chief customer experience officer. 

The deployment of Wi-Fi on domestic routes follows an ongoing pilot program on international services aboard Airbus A350, select A321neo, and Boeing 787-9 flights to destinations such as New York, London, Paris, and Singapore. Passengers will need to enter their PNR and last name to connect to the Wi-Fi.

PhonePe, GPay get 2 years more to cut UPI mkt share

PhonePe, GPay get 2 years more to cut UPI mkt share 

NPCI Lifts 10Cr User Cap On WhatsApp Pay 

Mayur.Shetty@timesofindia.com 01.01.2025

Mumbai : NPCI has extended by two years the deadline for third-party apps PhonePe and Google Pay to bring down their market share in UPI. The apex payments body has also lifted the onboarding limit, capping the maximum number of users at 10 crore for WhatsApp in respect of UPI. This is the second time NPCI has extended the timeline, even as PhonePe and Google Pay increased their market shares to 48% and 37%, respectively, despite the entry of new players. In Nov 2020, NPCI had announced that no single thirdparty app provider should have a market share of more than 30% of total UPI transaction volumes by Dec 31, 2024. The cap was introduced following the moratorium on Yes Bank, which impacted PhonePe transactions and led to UPI volumes dropping nearly 40% overnight. The cap aimed to reduce the risk of single-point failure. Since then, PhonePe has partnered with multiple banks to process UPI transactions. 

However, PhonePe and Google Pay’s shares con tinued to rise as the third-largest player, Paytm, faced challenges due to RBI action on Paytm Payments Bank. As of Dec 30, there were 1,613 crore UPI transactions worth Rs 22.3 lakh crore for the month. “We welcome the extension of the market cap as we believe that people will choose from dozens of new UPI apps available. Paytm is regaining market share, and new apps like Naavi, Cred, Bhim, WhatsApp Pay, and others are growing strongly. Banks are also getting their UPI app strategy in place. I believe that in the next two years, the market will resolve this market cap issue on its own. Blocking growth of incumbents is not the right strategy and would have surely slowed UPI’s growth,” said Vishwas Patel, chairman, Payment Council of India (PCI). 

Although there are a number of players, they have failed to make a significant impact in the market, as they were unwilling to spend to acquire transactions where there was little or no revenue. Google Pay and PhonePe, owned by Alphabet and Walmart, respectively, have invested billions of dollars to gain users on their platforms. NPCI’s Bhim app, launched by the prime minister during demonetisation, lost most of its initial momentum after the company shifted its strategy. 

The app was offered as a white-label service to banks that lacked their own UPI app. Recently, however, Bhim has been spun off as a separate division, and NPCI plans to push the product more aggressively. Industry insiders believe UPI is on track to achieve a billion transactions per day. “Given such volumes and the low operating cost structure, players would be able to make money even if a small charge on large merchants is imposed,” said an executive at a payment company.

State’s healthcare system suffers critical gaps, says CAG report

State’s healthcare system suffers critical gaps, says CAG report 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 01.01.2025

Bengaluru : From a shortage of medical professionals to undelivered equipment and inadequate budget allocation, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India has uncovered several shortcomings across multiple areas of Karnataka’s healthcare system. The audit report, tabled in the recent winter session of the state legislature, covers the period from 2016-17 to 2021-22. It reveals a severe shortage of medical professionals, with taluk hospitals operating at 45% below the required staffing levels of Indian Public Health Standards. This deficit is particularly acute in services such as general surgery and anaesthesia, leading to increased pressure on existing medical staff in secondary healthcare facilities.

The CAG findings also reveal that infrastructure and equipment deficiencies plague the system: The state faces a critical shortage of ICU beds, while many taluk hospitals lack functional operating theatres, compromising their ability to provide surgical services. Adding to these concerns, equipment valued at over Rs 95 crore remains undelivered. The audit identifies serious issues in drug management and procurement. Karnataka lacks a “documented” procurement policy for essential medicines, resulting in shortages, particularly in emergency services. 

The report also flags discrepancies in drug quality testing, noting six instances where results from the drug controller conflicted with empanelled laboratory findings. Maternal and infant healthcare services face particular challenges, with shortages in both personnel and essential medications. These deficiencies pose increased risks for premature infants and their postnatal care, as per the report. Scrutinising the financial aspects of healthcare management, the report finds that the state’s health sector received an average budget allocation of nearly 4.3% of total state spending during the review period, falling short of National Health Policy recommendations. Health expenditure as a percentage of gross state domestic product remained between 0.6% and 0.8%, significantly below prescribed benchmarks. The report also noted concerns about the  proper utilisation of allocated funds.

28-year-old man duped of ₹16L in ‘work from home’ fraud

28-year-old man duped of ₹16L in ‘work from home’ fraud

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 01.01.2025

Ahmedabad : A 28-year old man from Thakkarbapanagar filed a complaint with Cybercrime police on Monday, stating that he was cheated of Rs 15.64 lakh in a ‘work from home’ fraud in July and Aug. According to the complainant, he received a call from an unknown man in the second week of July, offering him a work from home job. He was given the task of liking different web portals of various services and was promised remuneration for liking each service. He was then made to join a WhatsApp group where different tasks were assigned. “The fraudsters gained the complainant’s trust by asking him to submit ratings through a fake application under the pretext of completing tasks. Believing the scheme to be legiti mate, the complainant transferred Rs 15.64 lakh to various bank accounts provided by the scammers,” said a Cybercrime police officer. 

However, even after he paid the money, he was not given any remuneration and was repeatedly asked to pay more money. The complainant finally approached Cybercrime police and filed a complaint of cheating and breach of trust under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with charges under the Information Technology Act, and an investigation began

IMA writes to doctor MPs and MLAs to oppose ‘mixopathy’

IMA writes to doctor MPs and MLAs to oppose ‘mixopathy’ 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 01.01.2025

Ahmedabad : The Gujarat State Branch of the Indian Medical Association (GSBIMA) on Tuesday wrote letters to MPs and MLAs with a medical background to garner support for opposing ‘mixopathy’ in the state. The letters are in the context of a proposed meeting by the state health department on Jan 3 to discuss ways to allow doctors with a degree in ayurveda to practise allopathy in a controlled manner. IMA already approached the senior health department officials to protest the move. The letters are written to MPs and MLAs along with senior functionaries such as Dr Darshita Shah, Dr Darshna Deshmukh, Dr Hasmukh Patel, Dr Payal Kukrani, Dr Pradyumna Vaja, Dr Tushar Chaudhary, and Dr Jashwantsinh Parmar, among others.

‘Allowing or promoting mixopathy could lead to hazardous outcomes, including misdiagnoses, inappropriate treatments, and serious ad verse events. This not only jeopardises the health of individual patients but also undermines public trust in the healthcare system as a whole,’ mentioned the letter. The officials also sought time from the functionaries and lawmakers to explain the finer points of the proposal. On Tuesday, the Federation of Family Physicians’Associations of India also wrote a letter to Rushikesh Patel, the state health minister, to protest the move. ‘We request to delve deeper into this critical issue, reject any unreasonable demand from anyone, and collaboratively explore solutions that will ensure the health and safety of Gujarat’s citizens remain uncompromised,’ mentioned the letter

Visa firm sends 2 to Philippines for dud MBBS degree

Visa firm sends 2 to Philippines for dud MBBS degree 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 01.01.2025

Ahmedabad : A Viratnagar businessman, aged 50, was allegedly defrauded of Rs 27.18 lakh by four individuals from a visa consultancy firm who allegedly arranged for his son and nephew to study MBBS in the Philippines despite the degree not being recognised for practice in India. The victim on Monday filed a complaint with Nikol police against owners of the firm and three others, alleging forgery and breach of trust. In 2022, the businessman had sought admission for his son and nephew at Lyceum Northwestern University in Dagupan City, Philippines, and approached a local visa consultancy where he met the managers. The management team, including a woman, presented a fee structure for the MBBS course in Manila, Philippines, quoting Rs 17.50 lakh for each student, with additional charges for accommodation, food, visa extensions and miscellaneous expenses. After agreeing to send both students, the family received offer letters confirming admission. Before the students’ departure, the consultancy collected Rs 9.5 lakh as course fees. In Feb 2023, after the programme commenced, the students discovered that the MBBS qualification from the Philippines was not valid in India due to licensing restric tions. The family later learned that whilst they were told the course would last five and ahalf years, the college indicated a sevenyear duration. 

Despite raising concerns, the consultant allegedly continued making false promises and provided written confirmation that the Dagupan City Lyceum Northwestern University certificate would be recognised in India. Upon consulting the Indian Embassy, the family confirmed that Philippines-issued practice licences were invalid in India. When the family requested the students’ return due to the course’s non-recognition in India, the consultant informed them that college fees were non-refundable. A complaint was filed on Monday

Leopard spotted at Infosys Mysuru campus

Leopard spotted at Infosys Mysuru campus 

EMPLOYEES TOLD TO WORK FROM HOME 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 01.01.2025

Mysuru : A leopard was sighted at the Infosys campus in Mysuru on Tuesday, sending foresters and police on a hunt to trap the big cat. CCTV footage confirmed the leopard’s presence some 100m from the hostel at the high-security campus located in the Hebbal industrial area on the outskirts of the city. However, personnel from the forest department, cops and the IT company staff did not spot it during the day. Combing operations will continue on Wednesday as well, forest authorities said. As soon as the big cat’s pres ence on the campus was confirmed, it was closed for the day. Except for a handful of staff members, only foresters and police were allowed inside, and all the gates were closed. More than 10,000 people work on the campus that is spread over 300 acres. A software engineer said he received a message around 6am about the presence of the leopard and was advised to work from home for the day. Speaking to reporters in Bidar, forest minister Eshwar B Khandre said: “Drones fitted with thermal cameras are being used to trace the leopard.